Top that off with some of the X-Men of stereoscopic 3D talent in John Harper (Stereographer) and Ben Gervais (3D production systems supervisor), both of whom I met at the Toronto International Stereoscopic 3D Conference in September. These guys know their stuff. I'm looking forward to talking with them again in the coming months to give you guys a look into how they work, especially for X-MEN: DAYS OF FUTURE PAST.

Here's the storyline for the movie:The ultimate X-Men ensemble fights a war for the survival of the species across two time periods in X-MEN: DAYS OF FUTURE PAST. The beloved characters from the original "X-Men" film trilogy join forces with their younger selves from "X-Men: First Class," in an epic battle that must change the past -- to save our future.

Monday, October 28, 2013

Oh man - anticipation is already at a fever pitch for THE HOBBIT: THE DESOLATION OF SMAUG and I don't really need anymore reasons to go... BUT...

Have a look at these new TV Spots (#4 and 5)! Remember, all the Hobbit movies are shot in 48 frames per second in native 3D on 3ality Technica rigs and Red Epic cameras - the best in the business. Can't wait!

Here is the storyline for the movie:The second in a trilogy of films adapting the enduringly popular masterpiece The Hobbit, by J.R.R. Tolkien, "The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug" continues the adventure of the title character Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman) as he journeys with the Wizard Gandalf (Ian McKellen) and thirteen Dwarves, led by Thorin Oakenshield (Richard Armitage) on an epic quest to reclaim the lost Dwarf Kingdom of Erebor.

Here's the storyline for the movie:Keanu Reeves makes an explosive return to action-adventure in 47 Ronin. After a treacherous warlord kills their master and banishes their kind, 47 leaderless samurai vow to seek vengeance and restore honor to their people. Driven from their homes and dispersed across the land, this band of Ronin must seek the help of Kai (Reeves) - a half-breed they once rejected - as they fight their way across a savage world of mythic beasts, shape-shifting witchcraft and wondrous terrors. As this exiled, enslaved outcast becomes their most deadly weapon, he will transform into the hero who inspires this band of outnumbered rebels to seize eternity.

Saturday, October 26, 2013

Great news fans of Middle-earth! You can get an advance look at some of THE HOBBIT: THE DESOLATION OF SMAUG at major theaters on November 4th at 5pm Eastern. Stars Richard Armitage, Orlando Bloom, Evangeline Lilly, Luke Evans, Lee Pace, Andy Serkis will be involved too.

If you are not in one of the major centers listed below, don't worry - there will be a live online feed streamed as well.

Can't wait to get to see some footage! By the way, I just got off the phone with the CEO of 3ality Technica, Steve Schklair (who's company provided rigs and S3D expertise to the Hobbit productions) and I will have that interview up soon! We discuss SMAUG and his new 3D movie he co-produced entitled STALINGRAD that's been a huge hit overseas.

Here are the cities involved (alas mine is not one of them):
NEW YORK
AMC Lincoln Square
Featuring special host Anderson Cooper and cast members Richard Armitage and Orlando Bloom

WORLDWIDE FAN EVENT FOR “THE HOBBIT: THE DESOLATION OF SMAUG” SET FOR NOVEMBER 4, 2013

Fans Get Chance to Meet New Stars Joining the Trilogy, Catch an Exclusive First Look at Footage from “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug,” and Participate in a Live Q&A with Director Peter Jackson and the Cast

Burbank, CA, October 25, 2013 — Gearing up for the December 13, 2013, release of “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug,” a production of New Line Cinema and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures (MGM), fans will get a chance to meet new cast members joining the highly anticipated second film in “The Hobbit” Trilogy, including Orlando Bloom, Evangeline Lilly, Lee Pace and Luke Evans, as part of a global fan celebration to be held on Monday, November 4, at 5:00 pm EST, and simultaneous times around the world. At each of the satellite-linked cinemas in four host cities—Los Angeles, New York, London and Wellington—Jackson and members of his cast and filmmaking team will gather with fans to show exclusive footage from “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug” and answer questions in front of a live audience, as well as offer a few surprises.

CNN Anchor Anderson Cooper, who serves as special host for the entire event, will be based in New York, where he will welcome Richard Armitage, the film’s Thorin Oakenshield, and Orlando Bloom, who returns to the role of Legolas from “The Lord of the Rings” Trilogy. Evangeline Lilly, who joins the cast as a new Elf warrior, Tauriel, will be based in Los Angeles. London will host new cast member Lee Pace, the film’s Elf King Thranduil; Luke Evans, who joins the cast as Bard the Bowman; and Andy Serkis, a member of Jackson’s filmmaking team and the first film’s Gollum. Peter Jackson will join the celebration from Wellington, New Zealand (where it will be Tuesday, November 5, at 11:00 am).

Each cinema will be connected by satellite, allowing audiences to participate in a simultaneous Q and A among participants in all four host locations. Additionally, in cities across the globe—including Brussels, Belgium; Hamburg, Germany; Madrid, Spain; Mexico City, Mexico; Miami, Florida, USA; Paris, France; Rome, Italy; Sydney, Australia; and Toronto, Canada—fans will be invited to gather at select cinemas to be among the first to see the extended footage debut and watch the festivities unfold live. The event will also be streamed live online so that anyone with an internet connection can join the celebration at home or at viewing parties among friends, though the online simulcast will feature an edited version of the extended footage debut.

Details on locations, timing and how to sign up for a chance to join one of the many simultaneous events can be found at the film’s official site (TheHobbit.com) and on Facebook (facebook.com/TheHobbitMovie) and Twitter (Twitter.com/TheHobbitMovie), under the global hashtag #hobbitfanevent.

From Academy Award®-winning filmmaker Peter Jackson comes “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug,” the second in a trilogy of films adapting the enduringly popular masterpiece The Hobbit, by J.R.R. Tolkien. The three films tell a continuous story set in Middle-earth 60 years before “The Lord of the Rings,” which Jackson and his filmmaking team brought to the big screen in the blockbuster trilogy that culminated with the Oscar®-winning “The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King.”

The screenplay for “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug” is by Fran Walsh and Philippa Boyens and Peter Jackson and Guillermo del Toro based on the novel by J.R.R. Tolkien. Jackson also produced the film, together with Carolynne Cunningham, Zane Weiner and Fran Walsh. The executive producers are Alan Horn, Toby Emmerich, Ken Kamins and Carolyn Blackwood, with Philippa Boyens and Eileen Moran serving as co-producers.

The creative behind-the-scenes team is led by director of photography Andrew Lesnie, production designer Dan Hennah, conceptual designers Alan Lee and John Howe, editor Jabez Olssen, and hair and makeup designer Peter Swords King. The costumes are designed by Bob Buck, Ann Maskrey and Richard Taylor. Taylor is also overseeing the design and production of armour, weapons, creatures and special makeup, which are once again being made by the award-winning Weta Workshop. Weta Digital is taking on the visual effects for the film, led by senior visual effects supervisor Joe Letteri. The visual effects supervisor is Eric Saindon, with David Clayton and Eric Reynolds serving as animation supervisors.

Under Jackson’s direction, “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug” was shot in 3D 48 frames-per-second and will be released in High Frame Rate 3D (HFR 3D) in select theaters, other 2D and 3D formats, and IMAX®. Production took place at Jackson’s own facilities in Miramar, Wellington, and on location around New Zealand. Post production took place at Park Road Post Production in Wellington.

New Line Cinema and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Present a WingNut Films Production, “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug.” “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug” is a production of New Line Cinema and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures (MGM), with New Line managing production. Warner Bros. Pictures is handling worldwide theatrical distribution, with select international territories as well as all international television distribution being handled by MGM.

Thursday, October 24, 2013

Tim here, and I've been pretty busy and unable to get out more posts from the TIS3DC, but they will be coming. However, I got a real treat for you: the first trailer for CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE WINTER SOLDIER. Now I'm a bit Marveled out, but this trailer has got me excited. It looks pretty bad--
Well I shouldn't swear, so just take it as really good. I won't hold off much longer. Enjoy this insanely awesome trailer:

Wednesday, October 23, 2013

For all you Cap fans, there will be a teaser trailer released tomorrow about midday on the east coast!And here are a couple of preemptive images from USA Today showing off Captain America's new suit and what looks like a very short lived battle in an elevator.

Here's the storyline for the movie:After the cataclysmic events in New York with The Avengers, Marvel’s CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE WINTER SOLDIER finds Steve Rogers, aka Captain America, living quietly in Washington, D.C. and trying to adjust to the modern world. But when a S.H.I.E.L.D. colleague comes under attack, Steve becomes embroiled in a web of intrigue that threatens to put the world at risk. Joining forces with the Black Widow, Captain America struggles to expose the ever-widening conspiracy while fighting off professional assassins sent to silence him at every turn. When the full scope of the villainous plot is revealed, Captain America and the Black Widow enlist the help of a new ally, the Falcon. However, they soon find themselves up against an unexpected and formidable enemy—the Winter Soldier.

Saturday, October 19, 2013

James Cameron is putting his money where his mouth is by self-financing (~ $5 million) a ~1 MW array of solar panels on the roofs of the MBS studios in Manhattan Beach. 3,692 solar modules producting 960 KWs to be precise.

Says Cameron: "The Avatar sequels are a great opportunity to show how we, as a production company, can make clean green solar energy as we go. Going into Avatar 2 and 3, we are going to be able produce enough solar energy to handle the entire electrical demand for our computers and performance capture systems here at MBS Media Campus. We have to do this for the future, for our children, and as a moral responsibility to the planet."

This further underscores his call to action from last year: "Some percentage of the presumably-massive 'Avatar' sequel gross will go to charity. Fox has partnered with me to donate a chunk of the profits to environmental causes that are at the heart of the 'Avatar' world."

Further and presumably, Lightstorm Entertainment chose the MBS Studios partially because of the Studios' implementation of a host of attractive ecological features including "An aggressive water conservation program, eco-friendly paints and cleaning products, sustainable café and craft services practices and a number of programs to promote greener transportation by its employees."

Kudos to Mr. Cameron for his continued commitment to the environment and to help present the message of the AVATAR franchise in the best possible way.

Next up Sam Worthington tees up the AVATAR sequels shooting date! Which is, according to the Daily Telegraph of Sydney, October of 2014.

Sam expounds:"I think Jim is building the ship to Pandora to be honest. We are going to start this time next year and we will do two, three and four. I'll be grateful if it finishes."

Sam always speaks his mind - actually I'm kinda surprised he didn't swear a bit there! I had to laugh the first time I got to speak with him hedidn't mince words. He's toned down somewhat from those early days in subsequent times I've met him.

I have to say that so far the AVATAR sequel productions are locked up extremely tight. I haven't heard a thing from my major sources and I'm hopeful of something soon emerging. Hopefully we can break something soon as we did for the first go around - like thefirst image of the Navi. I will also contact Cameron directly to vet any breaking news that we may uncover.Stay tuned!Pandora's box is about to get opened again...

Tuesday, October 15, 2013

A good friend of mine, Steve Schklair is a co-producer on STALINGRAD which was shot in amazing native 3D. I've seen segments of the movie and was not only moved by the attention to detail, authenticity of the war and acting - but also the 3D.Director Fedor Bondarchuk’s budget was $30 million and it's all on the screen and then some. It was shot on a massive set built outside St. Petersburg and painstakingly brought back to the horror of World War II in Russia.

3ality Technica supplied the 3D systems and technology behind the movie using the TS-5 rigs. I've seen these rigs up close and personal and they are impressive pieces of technology.

I love how artistically the visuals are done, mimicking film stock of the period that has been subsequently colorized. Brilliant. The visual effects are Hollywood class as well, no doubt.

Russia has selected STALINGRAD as their Best Foreign Language contender for the Academy Awards for many reasons, one of which is obviously box office: The movie broke records in opening number one in Russia (1400 screens) and the Ukraine, raking in $17.3 million. I honestly believe it is deserving of the Oscar for its technical and creative triumphs. Sony distributed overseas.

Here's the movie's storyline:Written by Ilya Tilkin and Sergey Snezhkin and directed by Fedor Bondarchuk, STALINGRAD is set in 1942, when invading German troops were in control of the Volga River. A group of Soviet soldiers finds a young woman trapped behind enemy lines and works to protect her. Thomas Kretschmann and Yanina Studilina star.

Here's what MarketSaw reader 'Katusha' had to say about his experience with the director and his movie:"This is the best director in russia right now and I highly recommend his other movies which commonly share personal stories against a military historical backdrop. Fedor Bondarchuk's father, Sergei Bondarchuk also directed "War and Peace" in 1960's. His films do have patriotic notes - and there is much to be proud of for the efforts of Russian people to defend their land and families from German invasion, and this film's goal is to show their heroism and sacrifice. Germans were the aggressors, so I wouldn't expect a Russian director to side with them too much."You've got to see the trailer for this movie if you haven't seen it yet.

If you know your history, then you know that the Battle of Stalingrad was one of the bloodiest battles in the history of warfare. To brush up on the details, click here.Impressively, STALINGRAD is the first IMAX movie that is non-American and is Russia's first 3D movie. More details when I get it - I working on something special for this...

Saturday, October 12, 2013

Wow. Stunning! Have a look at the first glimpses of what is being planned for AVATAR LAND in Disney's Animal Kingdom, part of Walt Disney World, Florida.Just looking at Jim Cameron's face: He looks like a kid in a candy store doesn't he? And why not. His vision for this universe is going to be a Walt Disney attraction!

Here's what Tom Staggs, Chairman, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts had to say:"From the moment AVATAR was released, people were captivated by the mythical world of Pandora. When we announced that we’d be working with James Cameron and Lightstorm Entertainment to bring this world to life in our parks, we felt certain that this partnership and combination of talent and imagination would produce an experience unlike any other ever created. Our combined team has taken huge steps forward in “imagineering” Pandora as a real place for our guests to see, hear and touch. At the first-ever D23 Expo in Japan, we shared an early glimpse of the plans for AVATAR at Disney’s Animal Kingdom park and I wanted to share some of these breathtaking images and a short preview of what’s to come with all of you. As these concept renderings show in epic scale, in the world of AVATAR guests will encounter awe-inspiring floating mountains and wander through a nighttime jungle of bioluminescent plants that are alive with light and sound. Guests will also discover what it feels like to soar into the sky riding a Banshee. And the new AVATAR-inspired land won’t be the only change coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom. As part of the largest expansion in the history of the park, we’ll be adding all-new entertainment experiences, including a new nighttime spectacular where live music, floating lanterns, water screens and swirling animal imagery all combine to bring a show to Discovery River that will delight our guests and truly cap off their day at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. The park will introduce more nighttime entertainment as well, including live performers on Discovery Island (pictured above) and a new nighttime version of the Kilimanjaro Safaris. As the world of AVATAR becomes real at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the energy and passion shared by our Imagineers and the Lightstorm team for this monumental task continues to be remarkable. I can’t wait to see the reactions of our guests as they step into a world that until now has only existed on the screen."

Man, I can't wait for this park to open! Makes sense that it would be located in the Animal Kingdom with movie's ecological message too. The water ride through Pandora at night looks to be mind blowing! And the "Ride The Banshees" looks to be a flight simulator / 3D immersioncombination similar to the Transformers 3D ride I am wagering. I'm still a kid at heart and I could spend weeks in a place like this! More info whenever I get it...

Friday, October 11, 2013

Check out the first three TV spots for Peter Jackson's THE HOBBIT: THE DESOLATION OF SMAUG! I can't wait for this movie to happen. It seems like forever since AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY last December, but Smaug will soon be upon us!

There's nothing that surpasses the quality and purity of a native 3D production and we're about to see the best of the best with Peter Jackson's second production of the Hobbit movie trilogy.

3ality Techica is again housing the Red Epic cameras in their industry leading 3D rigs and further, lending their expertise to the production. There's no need to rely on post processing to create these images - they are captured live in camera. Native 3D is where the equipment and the creative talent truly shine.

If you haven't seen the trailer for THE HOBBIT: THE DESOLATION OF SMAUG yet, you can do so here. And it's a must watch!

Here's the movie's storyline:The second in a trilogy of films adapting the enduringly popular masterpiece The Hobbit, by J.R.R. Tolkien, "The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug" continues the adventure of the title character Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman) as he journeys with the Wizard Gandalf (Ian McKellen) and thirteen Dwarves, led by Thorin Oakenshield (Richard Armitage) on an epic quest to reclaim the lost Dwarf Kingdom of Erebor.

Ok, that title doesn't really make sense - holding altitude and also going into re-entry. But it SOUNDS cool. :-)Remember the original estimate for GRAVITY's opening weekend last week?$40 million, that's right. I said more like $50 million and that hit instead. Why did I think that high a number? Because of the IMAX and 3D surcharges that would be underestimated.

Now the projected earning for GRAVITY in its second weekend is pegged at... $40 million and I think that's about right - maybe $45m. Remember IMAX took in about 20% of the box office take from only 10% of the theaters so I'm thinking that the people that put off seeing the movie in the first weekend due to sold out IMAX venues will definitely be hitting it this weekend while its still scorching hot.

GRAVITY has legs. It'll be with us for a long time and it's primed for awards too. The movie has already pulled in $107 million in under a week worldwide.You don't need to have an apple fall on your head to know if you haven't discovered GRAVITY yet, you need to get out there and do it! More numbers soon...

Wednesday, October 09, 2013

Jaw-dropping! Worth every cent for a ticket to see this thing on the largest 3D screen possible. You WILL feel like an astronaut - and who doesn't want to feel like an astronaut?

This is a SPOILER-FREE review. Please note that the comments are NOT spoiler free and everyone has virtual free reign to discuss the movie.

GRAVITY pays homage to the dangerous careers that astronauts have, the incessant need that humans have to explore and adapt to change. It also pays homage to Apollo 13 (and all the men and women who have given their lives in the name of space exploration), to mothers, to women explorers and the tenacity it takes to survive and overcome the odds.

To date, GRAVITY has pulled in just under $100 million worldwide - and it just opened!

Let's get into the review's breakdown of the movie:

Story - 98%. The amazing thing about this ORIGINAL work is that most of the story is told visually. For me and for many, that is the way to win over an audience and young filmmakers would do well to emulate this accomplishment. I won't say more at this point other than to emphasis that the whole thing was an original script, something we could use a whole lot more of these days. I love that Alfonso was in this project from day 1 with co-writing (with his son) it right straight through to the end. This is definitely Cuaron at his best!

So why not give it 100%? Some issues in the story would be in how certain astronauts would have reacted to events as they unfold - keep in mind that these are not average people off the street. They are highly qualified and TRAINED individuals and scientists. Emergencies are prepared for through training and psychological assessments done long ago to ensure the best possible scenarios as far as human selection are concerned for these missions. I felt not all of this was addressed in totality here. I won't go into specifics so there are no spoilers, and one of you may convince me otherwise with something I missed in the moment. We can discuss in the spoiler filled comments.

What I loved was visual storytelling.Symbolism is definitely at play a great deal in the movie - keep your eye open for hints to get you thinking about birth, the meaning of life, parenting - especially motherhood and the oneness of being human across all races. GRAVITY's story is extremely well told, but it's told in such a VISUAL way that everyone can and will have a slightly different take on the whole film. It's a unifying film though - don't get me wrong. It celebrates the differences in the human race but also what ties us inextricably together. But due to the visual storytelling nature of the production, it will be uniquely special to YOU. Oscar? Perhaps.

Acting - 94%. What can I say? Sandra Bullock gives an amazing visceral performance. She was perfectly cast I believe and a solid choice for the role. One can wonder how Angelina Jolie would have performed in the role but there's no need. Bullock nailed it. She brought a believe ability factor to the role that I don't think anyone else could have achieved. And as I will say below, the suspension of disbelief in this movie is it's greatest achievement and Bullock contributed marvelously to the outcome. Oscar? Perhaps.

George Clooney play a pivotal role in this thing. He has the presence that the movie needed and anchored the believably to large extent as well.

Character Development - 92%. More time could have been spent here but I think that given the nature of the cinematography (extremely long shots) and the almost real-time nature of the pacing it makes it very difficult to weave in memories or flashbacks, etc to solidify visually this type of development. Alfonso Cuaron used everything that was available to him though - photographs, character storytelling, excellent character banter and so on. I'd love to give more percentage accomplished in this category but I can't. Do we see a change in Bullock's character? Oh yes. I see awards in her near future again.

Suspension of Disbelief - 100%.GRAVITY's greatest achievement! It's here that I wish I hadn't seen any trailers, featurettes or behind the scenes shots because those were the only moments were suspension of disbelief was broken for me. I have a problem with that sometimes and as an aspiring filmmaker myself it is hard to look and analyse how a scene was shot and made. But for the vast majority of you - GRAVITY is a trip to space that you will feel as if you are really there.

Directing - 98%.Alfonso Cuaron just solidified his position as one of the greatest directors we have today. His boldness and eye for the human condition in adversity is one of his strongest suits. His stewardship of this movie that almost didn't get made so many times in itself is a testament to his confidence in himself and the people around him to get the job done.

Cuaron's signature long scenes are definitely in the movie and dramatically pulls you into the action and the inaction of various scenes. You won't want to blink! It's amazing really. Cuaron is essentially the best at this device and it works.

If I could define Cuaron's career to date in one word it would be VISION. For me, that's the most important element of the movie (which includes his vision for the original story to begin with). Oscar? Yes.

Sound / Score - 98%.Stephen Price (THE WORLD'S END) did a remarkable job with GRAVITY. At times it wasn't what music was playing but the lack of sound altogether! I think that elegance is as much the story here as the composing. Price's score did indeed have a huge part to play in the stellar achievement in suspension of disbelief. Everything just sucked you in. Sound. Score. 3D. Cinematography. Long scenes. The list goes on. Stunning results. Oscar? Perhaps.

Cinematography - 100%. Emmanuel Lubezki (THE TREE OF LIFE, CHILDREN OF MEN) just completely overwhelmed in this movie! Perfect score. Again the superlative I want to use is jaw-dropping. Lubezki is able to not only work within the scope of Cuaron's unique fashion of storytelling, but also keeps everything beautifully balanced as a natural extension of our own eyesight. I'm sure Lubezki must have worked closely with Prime Focus to pull off the 3D results in post production as well because there wasn't any trouble spots that I could detect at all anywhere. More on the in the 3D portion. Hats off Emmanuel! Oscar? Yes.

Visual / Special Effects / Stunts - 100%.Another perfect score! Anyone who reads MarketSaw knows that I don't throw out perfect scores randomly. They are RARE and with good reason. If I give a 100% mark it's because I think it will hold up to the best of the best not only now but in the future. It's a classic in other words and really should be the subject of master classes in filmmaking the world around. I couldn't stick around to watch all the credits unfortunately this time around (I will with the next viewing!) but I think Framestore did the lions-share of the hands on work. Kudos!! Weightlessness shots - AMAZING! The explosion portions were thrilling to watch with the 3D immersion and the human element involved thrown in. Oscar? Yes.

Stereoscopic 3D - 98%. What can I say other than this is the finest 3D conversion I have ever seen. Well done Prime Focus! If there was an Oscar for 3D? Yes.I still think there were times were shooting natively would have produced better results, and I'm thinking specifically during the interior moments. Also I am of the opinion that the threshold could have been pushed a bit further on some of the exterior shots as well - I found my eyes to be very well rested throughout the movie so there was some room to play with in my opinion. I especially enjoyed the end shot (no spoiler) where they dialed in 3D a fair amount for that crescendo of emotion. Well done. Very well done.

However I will say that this is definitely the bar for 3D conversion. THE AVENGERS was absolutely great 3D. GRAVITY is better. Stereo D, it's your move!

GRAVITY is now playing! What are you waiting for? This is an event and a must see!

Friday, October 04, 2013

Ready for a new take on Frankenstein? I am. Really looking forward to see what the producers of UNDERWORLD have in store for us. I know producers Richard Wright and James McQuaide and these guys are tuned in to what audiences are looking for in gothic fun. I'm hoping for a great origins story too to help solidify a franchise here.

Here's the storyline for the movie:200 years after his shocking creation, Dr. Frankenstein’s creature, Adam, still walks the earth. But when he finds himself in the middle of a war over the fate of humanity, Adam discovers he holds the key that could destroy humankind. From the co-writer of the hit supernatural saga, UNDERWORLD, comes the action thriller I, FRANKENSTEIN, written for the screen and directed by Stuart Beattie, screen story by Kevin Grevioux and Stuart Beattie, based on the Darkstorm Studios graphic novel “I, Frankenstein” created by Kevin Grevioux. The story is brought to life by a cast that includes Aaron Eckhart, Bill Nighy, Yvonne Strahovski, Miranda Otto, Jai Courtney, and Aden Young as Victor Frankenstein.

Thursday, October 03, 2013

Wow. I'm definitely impressed with these tracking numbers! Fandango is reporting that GRAVITY will out duel AVATAR (90%) for percentage of seats sold in 3D on opening weekend at an astounding 91%. Further it looks to be tracking north of $40 million domestic as well. My personal opinion is that $45 milllion is the lower number with $50 plus million being possible. The 3D additional charge can play tricks on these forecasts.

Of course it doesn't hurt to have an amazing 98% fresh score on Rotten Tomatoes either! I'm running out of superlatives for the movie. All of this for an original 3D movie - SOOOO refreshing.

Here's the storyline for the movie:GRAVITY, directed by Oscar nominee Alfonso Cuaron, stars Oscar winners Sandra Bullock and George Clooney in a heart-pounding thriller that pulls you into the infinite and unforgiving realm of deep space. Bullock plays Dr. Ryan Stone, a brilliant medical engineer on her first shuttle mission with veteran astronaut Matt Kowalsky (Clooney). But on a seemingly routine spacewalk, disaster strikes. The shuttle is destroyed, leaving Stone and Kowalsky completely alone—tethered to nothing but each other and spiraling out into the blackness. The deafening silence tells them they have lost any link to Earth… and any chance for rescue. As fear turns to panic, every gulp of air eats away at what little oxygen is left. But the only way home may be to go further out into the terrifying expanse of space.This is a movie event guys - especially for 3D aficionados. It's opening in 3575 locations and it's going to be doing some brisk business! More numbers when I get them...GRAVITY drops tomorrow!

Perfect! Universal has tapped Peter Morgan (RUSH, FROST/NIXON, THE QUEEN) to write Ang Lee's next untitled project which centers on the rivalry between boxers Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier in the 1960-70s. Morgan is ideal to pen the project with his ability to squeeze out a compelling movie from real life rivals, like he did with James Hunt vs. Niki Lauda in RUSH (race car driving) and David Frost vs. Richard Nixon (political interviews).

Ang Lee of course won Oscar for Best Director for LIFE OF PI which astounded audiences with gorgeous cinematography and practically perfect 3D. Lee is also shooting his boxing rivalry movie in native 3D so I am definitely in high anticipation for this production!

Says Morgan:"It’s a look at how brutal the confrontations were between Ali and Frazier. They were marked by how aggressive Ali was towards Frazier out of the ring. He taunted and belittled him. [Ang Lee] wants to work with 3D technology that will make an audience feel as if they’re inside the ring. Further, Ang wants to actually use real footage of the original fights and bring in the actors through visual effects - should be a jaw dropping experience! I am thinking about those technically complex scenes in FORREST GUMP that brought Tom Hanks face to face with historical figures, only with modern technology and 3D.

Sounds dramatic and knowing Lee, he will indeed succeed in bringing us into the foray. More when I get it!

You all know Tim Buttner who is also a regular contributor on MarketSaw - he and I had an amazing time in Toronto last week at the Toronto International Stereoscopic 3D Convention!

The 2013 edition of the TIS3DC was packed full of surprises for me. I expected to see some familiar faces within the 3D world (and I know a LOT of faces in 3D) but probably not as many as I would see in Los Angeles for example.

I was right initially. It took awhile to acclimatize to the situation - but then it all happened remarkably fast. Conversations. Social drinks. Panels. Screenings. An amazing energy that only a large room full of like minded individuals can muster: A symbiosis of sorts. I quickly became friends with many, many industry professionals and a few really stood out.

I will be the first to admit it, I didn't know about this magnificent cluster of stereographers in Toronto. I don't just mean singular people, their teams are based here as well. And by magnificent I mean it. The stereographer behind HUGO, 47 RONIN and the soon to be released THE YOUNG AND PRODIGIOUS T.S. SPIVET was there: Demetri Portelli. The stereographer behind X-MEN: DAYS OF FUTURE PAST, RESIDENT EVIL: RETRIBUTION and THE THREE MUSKETEERS was there: John Harper. The stereographer behind SILENT HILL: REVELATION 3D was there: Brent Robinson. And I could go on with more of the local talent but I think you get the picture.

Of course it makes sense in retrospect; Toronto is a major hub of tentpole productions and a very healthy portion of those are 3D. So yes, talent will grow here and I will vouch that it indeed has. These guys are at the top of their game.

Demetri Portelli and Ben Gervais

Take Demetri for example. He gave us a Master Class on how he tackles 3D projects and to underscore just how important his team is to him, he brought in his Camera Systems Engineer Ben Gervais (who I also had the pleasure of speaking with at length). The weekend was more than just an opportunity to see how they pull off a production though. We saw results too with Demetri's latest work THE YOUNG AND PRODIGIOUS T.S. SPIVET and had the added benefit of having master filmmaker Jean-Pierre Jeunet there as well - larger than life - on the big screen via Skype. Let me tell you right now on record, the film is gorgeous. It rivals Scorsese's HUGO in that regard because this is a drama in 3D - and well of course Demetri was the Stereographer on that movie as well.

I think Jay Weissberg of Variety says it best on SPIVET:"Not since “Hugo” has three-dimensionality been used so inventively; unsurprisingly, the films share stereographers in the exceptionally talented Demetri Portelli, whose feel for pictorial planes is miraculous. Rather than seeming cheesy, each element thrown, swept or blown toward the camera induces smiles of surprise."Yeah, so there's THAT. I haven't seen the whole movie yet but can't wait. What I did see dilated my pupils with excitement. That this level of achievement is arriving in a dramatic setting. I'm here to say as well that I think Demetri Portelli is the world's foremost Stereographer in the dramatic genre today. Yes Brian Gardner did very well with LIFE OF PI, but Portelli has HUGO and SPIVET under his belt now and has branched out into action as well.

Here's an excerpt from Jonathan Holland's review from THR:"...The viewer is bombarded by a jaw-dropping array of enjoyable 3D effects -- motes of prairie dust and scary stuffed animals are among them, but the most satisfying are those which spring from the character’s minds, such as T.S.’s device for dropping an egg without breaking. This has been imagined by both T.S. and by Jeunet with a precision which is then transferred unerringly to the screen by d.p. Thomas Hardmeier and stereographer Demetri Portelli (previously responsible for recreating another young boy’s imagination, that of Martin Scorsese’s Hugo). Larsen’s book is full of T.S.’s devices, designs sketches, and these too are reimagined there, lovingly given motion."

So yes, these guys are talented. World class. I will be speaking to each one of the stereographers listed (and more on other stereo platforms) in a series of interviews on how the standard of native 3D filmmaking is not only maturing - but bringing the whole of cinematography with it. At least ((Whole of cinematography) - (The Wally Pfisters of the world)) > 0. Much greater than zero.

Now about the Toronto International Stereoscopic 3D Conference in general. An amazing weekend organized, staffed and executed in a professional and efficient manner. My compliments to Christos Alex. Giotis, the 3D FLIC Project Director that headed up the events. Amazing job! His team was nothing short of stellar as well. I couldn't believe how networked and easy the screening of segments were. It was a breath of fresh air. The volunteers looked and acted like professionals!Some great 3D companies represented here too - Adam May of Vision3, London (PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: ON STRANGER TIDES, JACK THE GIANT SLAYER) and I are planning an upcoming interview on the 3D scene in the UK.Robert Neuman, the Stereoscopic Department Head at Disney Animation Studios also spoke at the conference. I won't name all the companies that were represented but I hope this gives you a flavor of the conference.The talent I touched upon above does not do the whole event justice. There were filmmakers here (April Mullen, director of DEAD BEFORE DAWN 3DandEric Tessier, director of PEE WEE 3D were on my panel as well as financier Alex Farrell from RBC),James Stewartfrom Geneva Film Co. (They did FOXED! and the 3D mastering for CAVE OF FORGOTTEN DREAMS),Catherine Owens, Director of U2 3D - to this day still a benchmark for 3D concert movies. I loved her keynote and her message regarding education for the 3D industry fell on wide open ears. Read more about her recent 3DOO creative partnershiphere.The sky is the limit for this conference, situated exactly where it is in one of the world's epicenters of Stereoscopic 3D.For all of our TIS3DC coverage,click here. Can't wait for the next iteration!

Wednesday, October 02, 2013

MONTREAL, QUEBEC, Oct 02, 2013 -- SENSIO Technologies Inc. ("SENSIO" or "the Company") announced today that it has signed a 3D VOD licensing agreement with Universal Studios Inc. to make 3D movies available for rent on SENSIO's 3DGO!(TM) VOD service, beginning soon. 3DGO! (TM) is a premium 3D video-on-demand service, offering the best selection of Hollywood 3D movies for rent on demand to consumers whose 3DTVs support the SENSIO(R) Hi-Fi 3D technology.

The agreement with Universal Studios includes several feature films and documentaries which will become available in the US on the 3DGO!(TM) service according to specific availability windows. Viewers can expect quality titles including recent popular features such as Despicable Me, Jurassic Park 3D and Paranorman.

"We are extremely proud to add Universal Studios' outstanding movies to our ever-growing collection, confirming 3DGO!(TM)'s position as the best source of diversified high-quality 3D entertainment on demand", said Richard LaBerge, Executive Vice-President and Chief Business Development Officer of SENSIO."While some consumers are looking for the latest 3D blockbusters, others are looking for a favorite 3D movie or for a breathtaking 3D documentary. Universal's library provides this great diversity and with this agreement, SENSIO once again consolidates its position as a leader in providing quality 3D entertainment at home."

3DGO!(TM) is the world's first and only dedicated 3D transactional VOD service offering the largest selection of high-quality 3D content, including some of the latest 3D Hollywood blockbuster titles, via internet streaming to 3D television sets. The application offers consumers quick and easy access to an ever-growing library of varied 3D content which SENSIO is committed to continue developing. Neither subscription nor additional equipment is required making it a simple, inexpensive and ideal way to watch 3D in the home. 3DGO! uses the award-winning SENSIO(R) Hi-Fi 3D technology, a unique frame-compatible technology providing high-fidelity stereoscopic images while using conventional 2D channels. 3DGO! is currently available in the US to consumers whose 3DTVs support the SENSIO(R) Hi-Fi 3D technology. For a list of compatible devices and available movies, please visit www.3DGO.com.

For further information on SENSIO and its technologies, please visit www.sensio.tv

About SENSIO Technologies Inc. (SENSIO):

SENSIO Technologies Inc. (www.sensio.tv) has been leading the floor in bringing 3D video to the consumer since 1999. Its vision, expertise and state-of-the-art solutions, based on diversified stereoscopic image-processing technologies, have been trusted by some of the biggest names in the media and entertainment industries to power numerous industry firsts, initiate new business models and generate immediate revenue with a distinctive 3D offering.

SENSIO enables its clients to deliver the best possible 3D experience for the end-user through a broad portfolio of products, including its flagship, award-winning technology, SENSIO(R) Hi-Fi 3D. Through SENSIO solutions, consumers can access - with effortless interaction and complete peace of mind - 3D content of superior quality to common frame-compatible formats distributed over existing infrastructure (cable, satellite or over IP) and displayed using any existing digital equipment (cinema, home cinema, TV, game consoles or PC). SENSIO is listed on the Toronto TSX Venture Exchange.

SENSIO(R) is a registered trademark of SENSIO Technologies Inc.

Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements made in this press release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements and are subject to important risks, uncertainties and assumptions. The results or events predicted in these forward-looking statements may differ materially from actual results or events. As a result, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward looking statements. For more exhaustive information on these risks and uncertainties, the reader should refer to the risk factors described in the management's discussion and analysis of SENSIO for the quarter ended February 28, 2013. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release represent our expectations as of the date hereof. We disclaim any intention and assume no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Tuesday, October 01, 2013

Tim here and the second trailer for The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug is out! And Smaug speaks! There are some visual and audio spoilers for those who may want to save some treats until the big screening in theaters. However, it generally shows more action shots than the previous trailer, but also more of how the story continues from AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY.We see a bit more of the Elves, a little more hints about the Necromancer's true identity, more Bard and spiders, and a little bit of Beorn. The trailer gives an idea of where film #2 will end, and where it's likely There and Back Again will pick up. It's still obvious that the Battle of the Five Armies will be the central part of the final chapter, but at least now we know with certainty that Smaug will be the central point of the middle chapter. We're especially proud of the trailer as 3ality Technica is the 3D camera rig system Peter Jackson selected for use all the Hobbit movies. Specifically the TS-5 rigs. 3ality Technica has been at the forefront of 3D technology for a long time and it shows! Can't wait to see the results on the big screen for Smaug!

On December 13thThe Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug hits IMAX 3D and RealD 3D screens in HFR and SFR.